About Us

Consultancy

With a broad area of expertise our professionally trained staff can offer assistance in wide ranging areas of acoustics from the start to finish of a project.

Reasons for choosing H&H Acoustic Consultancy?

Whether assistance is required at the very early planning stages or if sign-off of a completed project is required we are able to assist. In addition our breadth of expertise allows us to consider projects from a number of different acoustic angles often resulting in more cost effective and practical solutions.

Why are Consultancy Services required?

In almost all developments and projects noise is now a consideration for health reasons; from hearing protection for employees and speech intelligibility in classrooms through to prevention of sleep disturbance in residential properties. As a result of this, planning conditions and regulations are in place to ensure a safe and healthy noise environment for those exposed to this new environment.

Which areas of acoustics can H&H Acoustic Consultancy help with?

ENVIRONMENTAL NOISE - residential and commercial developments require assessments to consider noise impact (residential) and noise generation (commercial). These assessments apply to any commercial site where additional noise sources are proposed and to all proposed residential sites. In addition commercial sites with ongoing activities may require periodic assessment to confirm noise levels are within permissible limits. We are able to assist with all forms of environmental noise assessments from small to very large scale projects.

RESIDENTIAL SOUND TESTING - residential dwellings that share a wall or floor are required to provide a suitable level of acoustic protection. It is imperative that the separating elements are designed and constructed in a way to provide this protection. We are able to provide assistance with new build and refurbishment projects in both traditional house/apartment developments as well as multi-occupant developments such as hotels and halls of residence. From assessment of an existing structure and design advice through to site testing for formal submission—we can assist.

REVERBERATION CONTROL - reverberation times that are too high can lead to lowered levels of speech intelligibility and comfort. The control of reverberation is critical in areas where communication is a primary function and can also be em-ployed to control the spread of noise within a space. We are able to provide guidance on suitable control measures and tailor our solutions to site constraints such as physical limitations and visual aesthetics.

NOISE AT WORK - in order to protect employees an assessment is required to determine the noise exposure within a work-place. This is typically completed when there is a reason to believe the environment has changed, such as new machinery or complaint, however in some cases this change can be missed. We can provide a full service to assess the needs of a business and if desired provide periodic checks to confirm the suitability of an existing assessment.

3D COMPUTER MODELLING - some projects require very complex analysis and the most cost effective and flexible way of achieving this is through the use of computer based modelling. As well as being consistently accurate in more complex environments it is also possible to modify (e.g. due to a site redesign) or continuously update the model (e.g. annual assessment requirement) meaning that cost savings can be made long term. We are able to provide a computer based 3D modelling service for external (CADNA) and internal (CATT) environments.

CPD PRESENTATIONS - in a number of project we noticed that our clients were requesting outline instructions on acoustics in order to help them understand the subject and their needs better. As a result we now offer a CPD service including formal RIBA approved CPD sessions. The CPD sessions range in subject from the basics of sound insulation design concepts through to the fundamental theories behind acoustics and how that translates into day-to-day life.

Environmental noise

Reasons for choosing H&H Acoustic Consultancy?

With a broad area of expertise our professionally trained staff can offer assistance in wide ranging areas of acoustics from the start to finish of a project. Whether assis-tance is required at the very early planning stages or if sign-off of a completed project is required we are able to assist. In addition our breadth of expertise allows us to consider projects from a number of different acoustic angles often resulting in more cost effective and practical solutions.

Why are environmental noise services required?

Residential and commercial developments require assessments to consider noise impact (residential) and noise generation (commercial). These assessments apply to any commercial site where additional noise sources are proposed and to all pro-posed residential sites. In addition commercial sites with ongoing activities may require periodic assessment to confirm noise levels are within permissible limits.

What assessments can you help with?

BS 8233:2014 ’Guidance on sound insulation and noise reduction for buildings’ —is typically applied when considering newly formed residential properties affected by noise sources such as roads and railways. It provides reference for suitable assessment methods as well as giving guidance on noise level limits for habitable spaces.

World Health Organisation (WHO) Guidelines — although not normally referenced in planning conditions these guide-lines help inform a number of official documents and is often cited in discussions around the subject

BS 4142:2014 ‘Methods for rating and assessing industrial and commercial sound’ — is typically applied when considering noise from a commercial/industrial source the affects nearby sensitive locations such as residential properties.

IPPC Horizontal Guidance for Noise Part 2 – Noise Assessment and Control – this guidance references multiple documents including those listed above. A noise management plan is required within this document and makes consideration of best available technique (BAT) approaches to noise control.

HTM08-01 : Acoustics — considers noise affecting healthcare buildings and is enforced to protect future users of the site from distracting noise sources and sleep disturbance. Typically this is required before/during the design stage and helps inform specification of external envelope elements

BB93 — Acoustic design of schools: performance standards — this document considers many areas of acoustics within schools. For the purposes of environmental noise considerations it serves to protect users from nuisance external noise sources and ensure a beneficial learning/teaching environment.

What happens during an environmental noise survey?

Typically an environmental noise survey will fall into two elements. Firstly a long-term measurement is normally required; this will require that sound level metering equipment be left on the site over a weekend period. Secondly a manned de-tailed assessment is conducted (typically at the time of set up or collection of the long-term metering) to determine specific noise source at the site or affecting the site.

How long does the process take?

Depending on weather conditions and site specific details the process will normally be completed within a 1 month working period.

Residential sound testing

Reasons for choosing H&H Acoustic Consultancy?

With a broad area of expertise our professionally trained staff can offer assistance in wide ranging areas of acoustics from the start to finish of a project. Whether assistance is re-quired at the very early planning stages or if sign-off of a completed project is required we are able to assist. In addition our breadth of expertise allows us to consider projects from a number of different acoustic angles often resulting in more cost effective and practical solutions.

Why is sound testing required?

Sound Insulation testing is required to ensure privacy and prevent nuisance between new build and refurbished dwellings used for residential purposes. This includes all variations of dwellings including houses, apartments, hotels, student halls and long-term healthcare units.

What assessments can you help with?

Approved Document E (England and Wales) — testing is required to show that suitable protection is offered by party wall and floor constructions across the whole site. The required level of sound insulation is based on the type of project and proposed use of the space.

HTM08-01 : Acoustics — sound insulation between spaces within a healthcare building is required for speech privacy. The requirements vary with space usage and are usually combined with a full HTM08-01 assessment.

BB93 — Acoustic design of schools: performance standards — sound insulation within schools is targeted at distur-bance prevention. The target level is calculated on a space-by-space basis and is normally completed in tandem with a full BB93 assessment.

What happens during a sound insulation assessment?

There are three stages to a sound insulation assessment—design, construction and verification. It is highly recommended that any proposed solutions for provision of sound insulation be checked prior to the construction phase of the project. A design assessment can be based on a proposed construction outline or in more complex installations drawings can be as-sessed. If any changes are required these will be determined an specified. Attention to detail during construction is critical and as such guidance is typically provided, an additional service of periodic site assessments during the construction phase is available where required. Once construction has been completed it is possible to conduct final testing, this comprises of a site visit to assess a number of example constructions.

What happens after a sound insulation assessment?

At all stages of the process a report is issued that is suitable to 3rd parties. In the case of design advice it is common to have a process of conversation with the client to agree on a preferred solution. Upon final testing an assessment is submitted to the accrediting body (which ensure Building Control will accept the report) along with a report issued to the client detailing the results of the testing. In the rare case that testing should result in failure support will be offered to determine the cause and suitable remedial measures recommended.

How long does the process take?

Depending on availability of drawings and/or site access the process will normally be completed within a 2 week working period.

Reverberation control

Reasons for choosing H&H Acoustic Consultancy?

With a broad area of expertise our professionally trained staff can offer assistance in wide ranging areas of acoustics from the start to finish of a project. Whether assistance is re-quired at the very early planning stages or if sign-off of a completed project is required we are able to assist. In addition our breadth of expertise allows us to consider projects from a number of different acoustic angles often resulting in more cost effective and practical solutions.

Why is reverberation noise control required?

Reverberation exists almost everywhere, sometimes it is wanted (such as concert halls and lecture theatres), sometimes it is unwanted (such as testing laboratories). In most cases however it is desirable to have the right amount—too little reverberation can lead to a sterile acoustic environment and increased effort for speakers, too much can result in uncomfortable levels of noise (often referred to as ‘hubbub’) and reduced speech intelligibility. The requirement for reverberation control is represented in a number of documents mainly revolving around speech intelligibility and the control of noise spread.

What assessments can you help with?

BS 8233:2014 ’Guidance on sound insulation and noise reduction for buildings’ — gives guidance to maintain a good level of speech intelligibility.

HTM08-01 : Acoustics — considers noise affecting healthcare buildings and is enforced to protect future users of the site from distracting noise sources and sleep disturbance. Typically this is required before/during the design stage and helps inform specification of external envelope elements

BB93 — Acoustic design of schools: performance standards — this document considers many areas of acoustics within schools. For the purposes of environmental noise considerations it serves to protect users from nuisance external noise sources and ensure a beneficial learning/teaching environment.

What happens during a reverberation assessment?

Typically a reverberation assessment will fall into two categories. The first method is to visit site and measure the reverbera-tion time, this is the most accurate method as it removes any assumptions within a model but requires an existing environ-ment and a site visit. Alternatively reverberation can be calculated or modelled, this is the most flexible approach as it can be completed for theoretical environments.

What happens after a reverberation assessment?

The collected/determined data is assessed against the relevant guidance. The findings of the assessment are presented in the form of a technical report and issued to the identified client. In some cases control measures are required and in these cases advice is integrated into the report with a final workable solution.

What happens after a reverberation assessment?

The collected/determined data is assessed against the relevant guidance. The findings of the assessment are presented in the form of a technical report and issued to the identified client. In some cases control measures are required and in these cases advice is integrated into the report with a final workable solution.

Noise at work

Reasons for choosing H&H Acoustic Consultancy?

With a broad area of expertise our professionally trained staff can offer assistance in wide ranging areas of acoustics from the start to finish of a project. Whether assistance is re-quired at the very early planning stages or if sign-off of a completed project is required we are able to assist. In addition our breadth of expertise allows us to consider projects from a number of different acoustic angles often resulting in more cost effective and practical solutions.

Why are noise at work assessments required?

The Health and Safety Executive requires that noise assessment of a work environment is undertaken where exposure to high noise levels is experienced or suspected. Typically this will arise when new equipment/processes are installed or older equipment becomes worn. The requirement is specifically targeted at hearing protection but also includes consideration of ‘over protection’ where employees experience problems sue o incorrect specification of hearing protection systems.

What assessments can you help with?

Personal Exposure Levels – the requirements given relate to a personal exposure level, this can be very difficult to calculate through static noise level measurements so a specialist ‘badge’ metering system should be employed.

General exposure Levels – in cases where work stations are static and employees perform single tasks during atypical shift it is possible to determine exposure levels in this way.

Hazard Areas – the provision of hearing protection is required only where necessary, as such it is possible to designate areas within a facility as a hearing protection zone based on the measured noise levels within.

What happens during a sound insulation assessment?

A noise at work assessment is carried out in situ and during normal working practices, therefore disruption should be mini-mal. Typically an escort around site is required for safety reasons, but not mandatory if allowable by site specific rules. The assessment will normally take a full working day of 8-12 hours.

How long does the process take?

Depending on availability of drawings and/or site access the process will normally be completed within a 1 month working period.

3D computer modelling

Reasons for choosing H&H Acoustic Consultancy?

With a broad area of expertise our professionally trained staff can offer assistance in wide ranging areas of acoustics from the start to finish of a project. Whether assistance is required at the very early planning stages or if sign-off of a completed project is required we are able to assist. In addition our breadth of expertise allows us to consider projects from a number of different acoustic angles often resulting in more cost effective

Why are computer models required?

In some cases it is not possible to accurately assess an environment or space or for large scale assessments simply too time consuming. In these circumstances computer modelling can simplify the assessment and simultaneously increase accuracy. For some projects visualisation of noise is often helpful to assist assessment and for 3rd parties to understand the site, computer based models can generate these in 3 dimensions quickly and easily.

What assessments can you help with?

Environmental Noise – computer modelling is very useful for all sizes of project where noise ingress to buildings is of concern. This includes projects such as residential, offices, schools and hospitals. The model allows calculation of noise levels at the façade of a building on each floor level, meaning that specification can adjusted based on height as well as distance.

Commercial/Industrial Noise – where noise radiates from a site it is often difficult to accurately assess the effects buildings and natural barriers (such as ground height and ground hardness). Computer modelling accurately includes this ensure under/over specification is not made.

Reverberation Time – in complex spaces classical calculation methods become increasing unreliable as they assume a certain simplicity to the space. Using computer modelling allows accurate reverberation time assessment of these spaces in addition to more complex assessments such as speech intelligibility.

What is happens during a computer based assessment?

Environmental noise models are based on a combination of site measured noise levels and drawings. The site measure-ments will normally take place over a 4 to 7 day period and consider the dominant noise source at site. Industrial assess-ments can be based on site measured data or manufacturer data in combination with drawings. Reverberation assessments are predominately based on drawings and material specification sheets. Once the model has been created its findings are summarised in a report and issued inline with requirements.

What happens after a sound insulation assessment?

Following a computer based model it is possible to revise elements of the model as a result of repeat assessments or project redesign. This process of iterative assessment is particularly suited to live projects where design ideas are being discussed or to site where periodic reassessments are required.

How long does the process take?

Depending on availability of drawings and/or site access the process will normally be completed within a 1 month working period.

CPD presentations

Reasons for choosing H&H Acoustic Consultancy?

With a broad area of expertise our professionally trained staff can offer assistance in wide ranging areas of acoustics from the start to finish of a project. Whether assistance is required at the very early planning stages or if sign-off of a completed project is required we are able to assist. In addition our breadth of expertise allows us to consider projects from a number of different acoustic angles often resulting in more cost effective

Why are CPD Presentations useful?

In an increasingly large area of business acoustics is becoming a primary consideration. Whether it is related to acoustics within the business or if it relates to clientele an understanding of the subject can assist with deci-sion making and inform product recommendations.

What areas can you help with?

Principles and theory – a foundation in acoustic theory can be applied in a number of different areas and allows an understanding of mechanisms at work.

Sound Insulation Theory and Practice – the correct specification of acoustic materials early on in a project is key to achieving a positive outcome. Understanding the physics at work will allow reasonable flexibility in the approaches taken and allow early identification of projects where problems may occur.

Reverberation – Understanding the mechanics of reverberation control allows optimal placement of materials and specification. It also provides an understanding of where reverberation control is useful/applicable and can help avoid unnecessary or incorrect specification.

What is happens during a CPD session?

CPD sessions can be provided at our offices in Northamptonshire or at an agreed venue. Typically a single CPD session will be 1hr long but where more in-depth discussions are desired longer sessions can be arranged. Each session will be accompanied by suitable handouts and a Q&A session at the end. Typically contact details of the presenter will be available should any further questions arise at a later date.

What happens after a CPD session?

We pride ourselves on being an open and helpful service, as such any CPD session will likely lead to a point of contact within the acoustic industry willing to assist with any queries. Follow up sessions can be booked in the context of completed elements ensuring a continued and linked instruction in the subject.

How long does the process take?

Typically a CPD session be arranged and completed within a 1 month working period.

Architect and Specifier Resources

At Acoustic Technologies we realise how timely correct information can help progress a project along. We have a range of information about our products on RIBA; NBS and BIM for immediate download. To assist we have data sheets for all the products here along with some example case studies. Should you require additional help we have an independently certified acoustician on the team to assist with bespoke solutions for unique issue’s that manifest in projects. Find out more.